INFINITI QX50 Concept debuts at the Canadian International Auto Show +VIDEO

• QX50 Concept demonstrates a potential application for INFINITI's production-ready VC-Turbo variable compression ratio engine

• INFINITI's latest concept lights a path to the future integration of the brand's autonomous drive support technologies

• INFINITI partners with the Renault Sport Formula One^TM Team for the co-development of the Energy Recovery System

MISSISSAUGA, ON - February 17, 2017: The new QX50 Concept made its national premiere at the 2017 Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) in Toronto, showcasing INFINITI's vision for a next-generation mid-size premium crossover. Also on display at the INFINITI booth is a vehicle complementing the CIAS' special exhibit showcasing 50 years of Formula One^TM in Canada - a Renault Sport Formula One^TM race car.

The QX50 Concept showcases INFINTI's "Powerful Elegance" design language with unique interior and exterior features including: a driver assist system previewing the development of autonomous driving support technologies, double-arch grille, a masculine body sculpture, and a potential application for the award-winning VC-Turbo engine. Influenced by the INFINITI QX Sport Inspiration design, the QX50 Concept articulates its crossover purpose through proportional clarity, clearly telegraphing its power and dynamic capabilities.

"The QX50 is the most emotional design execution ever applied to an INFINITI crossover, combining outstanding performance with state-of-the-art technology and a daring design," said Stephen Lester, managing director, INFINITI Canada. "INFINITI has offered Canadians benchmark-setting vehicles in the crossover segment for almost 15 years, and we are thrilled to show CIAS visitors the brand's future offering in the fastest-growing segment globally."

INFINITI also showcased a Renault Sport Formula One^TM race car, which complements CIAS' special exhibit in celebration of 50 years of Formula One^TM in Canada. As Technical Partner to the Renault Sport Formula One^TM Team, INFINITI Motor Company Ltd. is assisting with the co-development of the Energy Recovery System, the performance hybrid technology part of the Power Unit. INFINITI first launched its awarded performance hybrid technology in 2011, gaining the experience that it is sharing now with the Team.

"This year, INFINITI is celebrating a successful partnership with the Renault Sport Formula One^TM Team and our commitment to empowering the drive through lessons learned in motorsport," said Lester. "By displaying the Renault Sport Formula One^TM race car at CIAS, we are proudly showcasing our involvement in Formula One^TM as well as 50 years of the highest level of motorsport in Canada."

About the INFINITI QX50 Concept
An evolution of the 2016 QX Sport Inspiration, the QX50 Concept shows how the design of its conceptual predecessor could be adapted for a future production model in the luxury crossover segment. INFINITI's latest concept articulates the artistic influence of the designer through the brand's "Powerful Elegance" design language. A "cabin-forward" silhouette combines with taut, muscular lines and flowing surfaces telegraph it as a dynamic and practical crossover.

The QX50 Concept illustrates a potential application for INFINITI's advanced Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine, offering drivers a powertrain that adapts to offer both power and efficiency.

The organic forms of the "driver-centric, passenger-minded" cabin harmonize with the exterior. Blending progressive design with elevated levels of modern craftsmanship, the QX50 Concept's interior reflects INFINITI's desire to challenge conventional approaches to premium interior design.

INFINITI's QX50 Concept's driver assist system is part of the company's development of autonomous drive support technologies. Central to the strategy for the development of all future autonomous drive support systems is that they should ensure the driver retains control over their vehicle – in keeping with INFINITI's focus on driver engagement.

In the future, INFINITI's autonomous drive technologies will continue to make driving less stressful, – such as navigating stop-start traffic on the highway or keeping track of the positions of surrounding vehicles.

Since its inception in 1989, INFINITI has brought a number of pioneering driver-assistive technologies to the customer. The company has been responsible for a series of world-first semi-autonomous technologies, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning, drive-by-wire Direct Adaptive Steering® and Active Lane Control.

INFINITI is in the middle of a major product offensive. The brand has been widely acclaimed for its daring design and innovative driver-assistance technologies. From the 2016 season, INFINITI is a Technical Partner of the Renault Sport Formula One^TM Team, contributing its expertise in hybrid performance.